Aspidura is a genus of small to medium-sized non-venomous snakes belonging to the family Colubridae. It is comprised of around 14 different species, commonly known as shield-tail snakes or roughbacks.
The word "aspidura" originates from the Greek words "aspidos," meaning "shield" and "oura," meaning "tail," which accurately describes the characteristic feature of this genus. These snakes possess a distinctive, shield-shaped scale at the tip of their tails, giving rise to their common name.
Members of the Aspidura genus are found mainly in the wet or dry zones of Sri Lanka, a country located in South Asia. These snakes inhabit a variety of habitats, including rainforests, grasslands, and agricultural areas.
The physical appearance of Aspidura snakes varies among species, but they generally have slender, elongated bodies with adults measuring around 30-50 centimeters in length. They possess smooth scales, typically colored in shades of brown or gray, with some species displaying intricate patterns. Shield-tail snakes have a blunt head and eyes with round pupils.
Aspidura snakes are predominantly terrestrial and feed primarily on insects, such as ants, beetles, and caterpillars. Although they are non-venomous, these snakes are known to be highly secretive and elusive, making them rarely encountered by humans.
Overall, the genus Aspidura encompasses a diverse group of snakes characterized by their shield-shaped tail tips, intriguing patterns, and preference for Sri Lankan habitats.
